Cosmetics and its Health Risks

Abstract

The use of cosmetic products is increasing around the world and a variety of chemical compounds used in the manufacture of these products grows at the same time. In this way, the risk of intoxication, allergic processes, prolonged chemical exposure, side effects and indiscriminate use are also increased. The present work aims to highlight the biological risks that cosmetics can pose to human health against the toxic substances used in its formulation. This work is an integrative literature review structured according to the methodology described by Whittemore, R. and Knafl, K., 2005. This work relates the main toxic chemical substances present in cosmetic products to the possible health complications reported in the scientific literature. Currently, the cosmetic industries have increased the use of compounds with preservative action, surfactant, fragrances, stains, etc. in the formulation of cosmetic products. Such substances potentiate the quality, property and shelf life of cosmetics, but on the other hand, many of these substances are toxic to the human body, presenting health risks ranging from a simple mild hypersensitivity reaction to an anaphylactic process or even a lethal intoxication. Thus, the indiscriminate use of cosmetics may present itself as an emerging issue of public health. In view of the above, this work seeks to encourage improvements in the search for new methodologies for quality control in the production and consumption of cosmetic products around the world.

The Beast of Beauty: Environmental and Health Concerns of Toxic Components in Cosmetics

“…Allergic contact dermatitis may occur by the inhalation of nickel and cobalt metals, which are widely used in eyeshadow, lipstick, hair cream and face paint cosmetics. Consumption of lead in large amounts interrupt the synthesis of calcium and heme channels, which are very critical for transmitting nerve signals [142,147]. Furthermore, lead also interferes with the functionality of central nervous system in children [148].…”

Review on Nano based herbal face wash powder

“…By the long term use of the cosmetics it may lead to carcinogenicity or other systemic disease 12 . The side effects derived from the use of cosmetics pose health risks mainly due to exposure to numerous chemical substances. Its consequences can range from a simple mild hypersensitivity reaction to an anaphylactic process or even a lethal intoxication 13 . Herbal formulations are growing demand in the world widely market.…”

“…The parabens most commonly used in cosmetics are ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben and methylparaben. Under the act of Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act), cosmetic ingredients and products, other than color additives, no need to get FDA approval before they go on the market 13 .…”

Antioxidant and Anti-Elastase Activity of Ethanol Extract of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

“…Some cosmetic products contain a new ingredient that is not on the licensing list. Their new components can cause allergies and skin damage (Pereira and Pereira, 2018). The toxic chemicals containing in cosmetic and sunscreen formulations, such as benzophenones, hydroquinone, pphenylenediamine (PPD), and mercury, can cause photoallergies cytotoxic and mutagenic to skin cells (Khan and Alam 2019).…”